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Connecticut Passes Strongest Paid Family Leave Bill in the Country

June 27, 2019

A paid leave program has been on the radar of advocacy groups and legislators for a number of years in Connecticut. Finally, in 2019, the idea became a reality and, days before the end of session, the Connecticut State Legislature passed the most comprehensive and generous paid leave program in the country. The bill allows workers to continue earning a portion of their pay while they take time away from work to address a serious health condition, care for a family member with a serious health condition, or care for a new child.

Along with the MS Society, the bill had support from other patient advocacy groups, groups that advocate on behalf of families, small business, unions, and more. This is the first paid family leave bill that the Society has supported and helped pass in 2019. 

We are thrilled with the passage of this bill. The MS Activists in Connecticut truly put in the time and effort this session and I have no doubt that their advocacy made a difference. Finally, Connecticut employees can take leave to care for themselves or a loved one without worrying about financial security,” said Laura Hoch, Manager of Advocacy for Connecticut. 

The bill covers, at 95%, up to 40 times the minimum wage and then 60% above that amount until they max out at 60 times the minimum wage. For example, if someone makes $500 a week and the minimum wage is $11 an hour, they’d get 95% of the first $440 and 60% of the remaining $60 but if they made more than $660 a week, they’d cap out at earning a percentage of that at that amount. The program is run by the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Authority. The federal Family Medical Leave Act applies to employers of 75 or more, the CT bill applies to any private employer or non-union public employer with even one employee.  

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.

About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.

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